

The world of tennis was shaken to its core when news broke of the tragic death of Peter Carter. A former coach of Roger Federer, Carter had played an instrumental role in shaping the career of the Swiss Maestro during his formative years. However, his untimely passing had a profound effect on Roger Federer, both on and off the court. In the years that followed, the young tennis prodigy underwent a transformation that would see him emerge as one of the greatest players of all time.
Carter’s death left a deep void in Federer’s life. He had lost not just a coach, but also a close friend and mentor. The impact of the loss was evident in Federer’s behavior on the court. He struggled to come to terms with the sudden absence of someone who had been such a big part of his life. In the book “The Roger Federer Effect”, Groeneveld details how Mirka helped him out of the really dark times.
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Roger Federer couldn’t handle Peter Carter’s absence
Federer did not just lose a coach in 2002, he lost the most “influential” coach he would ever have. Federer and Carter were an inseparable duo after Carter took Federer under his wing. Carter’s sudden death came as a massive blow to Federer’s emotional state and his career.
In the midst of the tragedy, Federer found a ray of hope in the form of Mirka, his longtime partner, and confidante. Mirka had always been a pillar of support for Federer, but her role became even more crucial after the death of Carter. With her maturity and experience, she provided the stability and comfort that Federer desperately needed during those difficult times.
According to Sven Groeneveld, the former coach of Federer, Mirka’s impact on Federer’s career cannot be overstated. “Mirka was a couple of years older. Obviously, as a female, she was more mature and she just was able to have a really, really positive impact on Roger, on the court, and off the court.”

via Imago
220924 — LONDON, Sept. 23, 2022 — Team Europe player Roger Federer R of Switzerland and his wife Mirka Federer. React at the end of Roger Federer s last match after announcing his retirement. At the Laver Cup in London, Britain, Sept. 23, 2022. SPBRITAIN-LONDON-TENNIS-LAVER CUP-FEDERER LixYing PUBLICATIONxNOTxINxCHN
He continues to talk about how she provided him with the assurance and confidence to move forward.
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“[She] gave Roger almost like a security blanket. That’s what he needed. He needed this feeling that people were looking after him, especially after the loss of Peter Carter.”
Mirka’s unwavering support helped Federer navigate through the difficult times and emerge as a stronger, more focused player.
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Over the years, she has continued to be his rock, accompanying him on his travels, providing emotional support, and playing an active role in his career.
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